Ecotourism
- Main Principles.
What
is ecotourism? To answer that question we should look at the meaning
of the word ecotourism first. Eco derives
from the Greek word oikos, loosely translating as habitat, and is an
abbreviation of the term ecology. The word tourism
developed from the Hebrew word Tora, which means to study, learn or
search. On this basis, many organisation and
researchers have tried to define ecotourism, but little consensus has
been reached. This is mainly due to the many
forms in which ecotourism activities are offered by a large and wide
variety of operators.
According
to the International
Ecotourism Society ecotourism is:
'responsible
travel to natural areas that conserves the environment and sustains
or even improves the well-being and
welfare of local people'.
The
Ecotourism
Association of Australia puts it more specific, namely as:
'ecologically
sustainable tourism with a primary focus on experiencing natural areas
that fosters environmental and
cultural understanding, appreciation and conservation'.
Baobab – Alternative Roots to Travel
defines ecotourism as a form of tourism containing as many of the following
ingredients as possible:
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Nature-based, with the main
motivation for travelling the observation and appreciation of
nature
as well as the traditional cultures prevailing in natural areas
supporting the protection of natural areas by generating economic
benefits for host communities,
providing alternative employment and income opportunities for
local communities and increasing
awareness towards the conservation of natural and cultural assets
minimising the negative impacts
upon the natural and socio-cultural environment
including educational and interpretation features enhancing
environmental awareness
organised for small groups
of interested people
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